Dad Made Millions on Wall Street, Then Gave It Up to Become Paramedic. 13 Years Later, He’s Still Saving Lives

A former millionaire commodities trader left behind the hustle and bustle of Wall Street at the age of 41 to embark on a new career as a rescue medic. Thirteen years later, Jonathan Kleisner stands out as one of the top instructors at the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), where he continues to save lives and make a difference in the community.

Kleisner, now 55 years old, reflected on his transition from finance to emergency response in a recent interview with The New York Times. He admitted feeling unfulfilled in his previous role as a trader, where he felt he wasn’t contributing positively to society. Despite earning millions annually, he described himself as someone who “created nothing, gave nothing to anybody.”

In 2012, Kleisner made the bold decision to leave his lucrative job and pursue a career that aligned more closely with his values. His annual salary dropped significantly to $110,000 but the sense of purpose he gained was invaluable. He embraced the opportunity to escape a life of monotony and chase after new challenges that would allow him to prove himself in a different arena.

Having earned the title of rescue medic for the FDNY, Kleisner’s elite training has equipped him to handle diverse and demanding situations. From aiding in the Holland Tunnel to rescuing individuals from precarious heights and navigating through blazing fires, he has demonstrated his dedication and proficiency in the field time and time again.

Despite the financial sacrifice involved in his career shift, Kleisner finds immense satisfaction in the work he does. He has become one of only five individuals at the FDNY entrusted with the responsibility of training other rescue medics, showcasing his expertise and leadership within the department. His commitment to the job goes beyond monetary rewards, driven by a deep-rooted competitive spirit and a desire to excel in his chosen profession.

Kleisner’s journey towards becoming a rescue medic began to take shape in 2008 during a hiking trip where he witnessed the crucial role of emergency medics in saving lives. Inspired by their bravery and skill, he decided to pursue formal training as an emergency medical technician and eventually joined the FDNY’s academy. Despite initial doubts, he embraced his new path wholeheartedly, finding profound fulfillment in helping others during times of crisis.

Over the years, Kleisner has encountered both triumphs and tragedies in his line of work. While he has been lauded for his exceptional rescues, such as saving a severely overweight man from a high-rise building, he has also faced heart-wrenching moments, like the loss of a young girl and her family in a tragic fire incident. These experiences have left a lasting impact on him, underscoring the emotional toll that comes with his noble profession.

As Kleisner continues to dedicate himself to serving the community as a paramedic, his story serves as a testament to the transformative power of following one’s calling. Despite the challenges and sacrifices along the way, he remains steadfast in his commitment to making a difference and saving lives, proving that true fulfillment often lies in pursuing a path that resonates with one’s heart and values.